Latest news with #SummerMcIntosh
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
For Summer McIntosh, being Canadian comes before Olympic gold: ‘National pride isn't just about wearing the flag, it's about living the values behind it'
Yahoo News Canada presents 'My Canada', a series spotlighting Canadians —born-and-raised to brand new — sharing their views on the Canadian dream, national identity and the triumphs and tribulations that come with life inside and outside these borders. At 18-years-old, Summer McIntosh is a household name in Canadian sport who isn't just breaking world records, but also redefining what it means to don the maple leaf. The teenage sensation is a known force in the pool and a flag-bearer for the next wave of athletes. However, behind every record-breaking swim and every gold medal clinched along the way is something deeper — a quiet, unwavering pride in being Canadian. Having wrapped up a dominant performance at the Canadian trials in June, Summer now has her eyes set on the next big task — World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, kicking off mid-July. Meanwhile, she found time for our My Canada series, in which she opens up on what competing for Canada truly means to her and how hearing O Canada still gives her goosebumps. Summer McIntosh with her wins at the Canadian Swimming Trials in Victoria, British Columbia. Built by a village, racing for a nation Summer grew up in Toronto, Ont., surrounded by friends and family. She started her swimming career at Lakeshore Aquatic Club while enjoying four other sports, but she moved on to the Etobicoke Swim Club after she found her calling. In her interview with Yahoo News Canada, Summer was quick to credit her roots. Advertisement "Growing up surrounded by people who support me and value hard work and perseverance, all while making sure the process is fun, is the reason I am here today," she said, recalling childhood days juggling five sports and family barbecues at the cottage. Those origins shine through when she speaks about what Canadian athletes represent on the global stage. She admires the "quiet confidence" often associated with Canada and its athletes — "a unique combination that should never be underestimated" — and she hopes to convey the balance: succeeding fiercely while staying true to your roots. More than a suit: The maple leaf fuels every stroke Summer Mcintosh of Canada competes in the 400m Individual Medley Women Heats during the short course World Aquatics Swimming Championships 2024 at Duna Arena. Budapest (Hungary), December 14th, 2024 (Photo by Andrea Masini/Deepbluemedia/Insidefoto/Mondadori Portfolio via Getty Images) Summer McIntosh doesn't just view her maple leaf suit as racing gear — it's part of what being Canadian means to her. "Every time I put on my maple leaf racing suit I am motivated more than ever to get my hand on the wall first." Advertisement That quiet, heart-first determination has seen her go from strength to strength, carrying her from Toronto pools to Olympic glory — and three blistering world records at the Canadian Trials in British Columbia. The 18-year-old put on an all-around swimming clinic in Victoria earlier this month, setting three world records in five days at the Canadian trials and even matching a Michael Phelps milestone. First came the show of sheer class from McIntosh on June 8, as she clocked an astonishing 3:54.18 in the 400m freestyle, breaking Ariarne Titmus's mark by over a second—the fastest swim the world has seen since Fukuoka 2023. What followed two days later was a masterclass in the 200m individual medley by McIntosh, who delivered 2:05.70 and the second world record in 48 hours. She completed the world-record trifecta in one of her favourite events — the 400m individual medley — where she beat her previous world record, clocking in at 4:23.65. But, as Summer looks back, it's never just about the medals — it's about why those moments are meaningful. Paris 2024 Olympics - Swimming - Women's 200m Ind. Medley Victory Ceremony - Paris La Defense Arena, Nanterre, France - August 03, 2024. Gold medallist Summer McIntosh of Canada celebrates as shes poses with her medal after winning the women's 200m individual medley REUTERS/Clodagh Kilcoyne When the anthem plays, it all comes flooding in When the strains of O Canada flooded the stadium at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she completed a gold medal hat-trick in the pool, Summer said she felt "indescribable — it's the rush of pride, gratitude and emotion." Advertisement With the Canadian flag rising and anthem playing, everything in that moment, simply fades away for her. "I always make sure to soak in that moment," she added, "as it reminds me of how hard work pays off and the incredible journey and support it has taken to launch Canada to the top of the world." It's that exact moment—for her—which encapsulates Canada's spirit: hard work, humility and a profound gratitude. Wherever in the world she trains: France, Florida, Singapore — anywhere with a lane line in sight, Summer makes it a point to carry those values with her. I proudly carry my Canadian identity with me … in how I train, how I carry myself, and how I treat others. Summer McIntosh, Olympic champion swimmer Summer McIntosh at Canadian swimming trials in Victoria, British Columbia. Records, yes—but purpose above all Undoubtedly, the world records are impressive: The third-fastest 800m freestyle ever and consecutive landmark swims. But, for Summer, these are markers, not destinations. Advertisement "It gives me a lot of confidence heading into Singapore," she said, eyeing the July World Championships. Yet she's quick to highlight that her performance remains in the service of something bigger: "It's not just about the medals I win, but about representing every young Canadian child who dares to chase their dreams and more!" The evidence of which was on display following her massive feat at the trials where she gave all five of her record-setting gold medals away to young kids. Her mix of ambition and empathy showcases an emotional maturity that displays her Canadian values. Summer McIntosh at Canadian swimming trials in Victoria, British Columbia. Canada in her wake, future in her sights: One stroke at a time While she trains—and reflects—legacy is already top of mind for Summer. Canada Day celebrations may find her abroad, since her summer routine includes training stints in France, but her Canadian pride remains constant. Advertisement Summer appreciates her platform and leans into it: "Elite sport has taught me that we are stronger together and that it truly matters who you are surrounded by." National pride isn't just about wearing the flag — it's about living the values behind it every day and being united and stronger together. Summer McIntosh, Olympic champion swimmer So, this Canada Day, reflect on this: Summer McIntosh is more than world records and headlines. She is a Canadian story — a narrative of humility, heart, community and pride. For the youth getting inspired by her gliding across the lanes, she's more than a swimmer. For Canada, she's a symbol of what it means to carry a country — not just on your suit, but in your soul. Gold medalist Summer McIntosh of Canada attends the victory ceremony for the women's 200m individual medley of swimming at Paris 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France, on Aug. 3, 2024. (Photo by Wang Peng/Xinhua via Getty Images) As part of our 'My Canada' series, tell us: How do you feel about Canada?
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
For Summer McIntosh, being Canadian comes before Olympic gold: ‘National pride isn't just about wearing the flag, it's about living the values behind it'
Yahoo News Canada presents 'My Canada', a series spotlighting the stories of Canadians - born-and-raised to brand new - sharing their views on the Canadian dream, our ever-changing national identity and the triumphs and tribulations that come with life inside and outside our borders. At 18-years-old, Summer McIntosh is a household name in Canadian sport who isn't just breaking world records, but also redefining what it means to don the maple leaf. The teenage sensation is a known force in the pool and a flag-bearer for the next wave of athletes. However, behind every record-breaking swim and every gold medal clinched along the way is something deeper — a quiet, unwavering pride in being Canadian. Having wrapped up a dominant performance at the Canadian trials in June, Summer now has her eyes set on the next big task — World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, kicking off mid-July. Meanwhile, she found time for our My Canada series, in which she opens up on what competing for Canada truly means to her and how hearing O Canada still gives her goosebumps. Summer grew up in Toronto, Ont., surrounded by friends and family. She started her swimming career at Lakeshore Aquatic Club while enjoying four other sports, but she moved on to the Etobicoke Swim Club after she found her calling. In her interview with Yahoo News Canada, Summer was quick to credit her roots. "Growing up surrounded by people who support me and value hard work and perseverance, all while making sure the process is fun, is the reason I am here today," she said, recalling childhood days juggling five sports and family barbecues at the cottage. Those origins shine through when she speaks about what Canadian athletes represent on the global stage. She admires the "quiet confidence" often associated with Canada and its athletes — "a unique combination that should never be underestimated" — and she hopes to convey the balance: succeeding fiercely while staying true to your roots. Summer McIntosh doesn't just view her maple leaf suit as racing gear — it's part of what being Canadian means to her. "Every time I put on my maple leaf racing suit I am motivated more than ever to get my hand on the wall first." That quiet, heart-first determination has seen her go from strength to strength, carrying her from Toronto pools to Olympic glory — and three blistering world records at the Canadian Trials in British Columbia. The 18-year-old put on an all-around swimming clinic in Victoria earlier this month, setting three world records in five days at the Canadian trials and even matching a Michael Phelps milestone. First came the show of sheer class from McIntosh on June 8, as she clocked an astonishing 3:54.18 in the 400m freestyle, breaking Ariarne Titmus's mark by over a second—the fastest swim the world has seen since Fukuoka 2023. What followed two days later was a masterclass in the 200m individual medley by McIntosh, who delivered 2:05.70 and the second world record in 48 hours. She completed the world-record trifecta in one of her favourite events — the 400m individual medley — where she beat her previous world record, clocking in at 4:23.65. But, as Summer looks back, it's never just about the medals — it's about why those moments are meaningful. When the strains of O Canada flooded the stadium at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she completed a gold medal hat-trick in the pool, Summer said she felt "indescribable — it's the rush of pride, gratitude and emotion." With the Canadian flag rising and anthem playing, everything in that moment, simply fades away for her. "I always make sure to soak in that moment," she added, "as it reminds me of how hard work pays off and the incredible journey and support it has taken to launch Canada to the top of the world." It's that exact moment—for her—which encapsulates Canada's spirit: hard work, humility and a profound gratitude. Wherever in the world she trains: France, Florida, Singapore — anywhere with a lane line in sight, Summer makes it a point to carry those values with her. I proudly carry my Canadian identity with me … in how I train, how I carry myself, and how I treat McIntosh, Olympic champion swimmer Undoubtedly, the world records are impressive: The third-fastest 800m freestyle ever and consecutive landmark swims. But, for Summer, these are markers, not destinations. "It gives me a lot of confidence heading into Singapore," she said, eyeing the July World Championships. Yet she's quick to highlight that her performance remains in the service of something bigger: "It's not just about the medals I win, but about representing every young Canadian child who dares to chase their dreams and more!" The evidence of which was on display following her massive feat at the trials where she gave all five of her record-setting gold medals away to young kids. Her mix of ambition and empathy showcases an emotional maturity that displays her Canadian values. While she trains—and reflects—legacy is already top of mind for Summer. Canada Day celebrations may find her abroad, since her summer routine includes training stints in France, but her Canadian pride remains constant. Summer appreciates her platform and leans into it: "Elite sport has taught me that we are stronger together and that it truly matters who you are surrounded by." National pride isn't just about wearing the flag — it's about living the values behind it every day and being united and stronger McIntosh, Olympic champion swimmer So, this Canada Day, reflect on this: Summer McIntosh is more than world records and headlines. She is a Canadian story — a narrative of humility, heart, community and pride. For the youth getting inspired by her gliding across the lanes, she's more than a swimmer. For Canada, she's a symbol of what it means to carry a country — not just on your suit, but in your soul.
Kuwait Times
15-06-2025
- Sport
- Kuwait Times
Canada's McIntosh breaks 400m medley world record
Summer McIntosh MONTREAL: Summer McIntosh bagged her third world record in days on Wednesday, clocking 4min 23.65sec to better her own 400 medley record at the Canadian Swimming Trials in Victoria. The 18-year-old Canadian prodigy, a three-time Olympic gold medalist, laid down another impressive marker ahead of next month's World Championships in Singapore with a dominant performance. McIntosh's blistering time beat her old mark of 4:24.38 set in Toronto in May last year at the Canadian Olympic trials. McIntosh's assault on her own world record got off to a smooth start, with the teenager completing the opening butterfly leg in world record pace. She was more than a second ahead of the world record at the halfway stage, and although that margin dropped to one-tenth of a second after the breaststroke, she produced an electrifying freestyle down the stretch to complete a scintillating performance. "Going into tonight, I knew I could do something really special because this has probably been the best meet of my career," McIntosh said afterwards in a pool deck interview. "World records are made to be broken. So by the time I leave this sport, I want to make sure that that record is as fast as possible. "That really keeps me going, because I know there's always going to be the next generation of kids growing up, and they're going to be chasing the record. So I've gotta give them my best effort to see how long it can stand." Wednesday's record-breaking display was the latest entry to an impressive catalogue of performances she has produced this week in British Columbia. On Saturday, she smashed the women's 400m freestyle record, slicing more than a second off Australian star Ariarne Titmus's world best from 2023. She then clocked the third fastest 800m freestyle in history on Sunday, before diving back into the pool on Monday to obliterate Hungarian great Katinka Hosszu's decade-old 200m medley world record. McIntosh, who gold medals in the 200m butterfly, 200m medley and 400m medley at last year's Paris Olympics, will now head to next month's worlds aiming to add to her collection of four world championship gold medals.- AFP
Straits Times
14-06-2025
- Sport
- Straits Times
Canada's teen sensation Summer McIntosh looking ahead to worlds after record week
Gold medallist Summer McIntosh of Canada celebrates as shes poses with her medal after winning the women's 200m individual medley. PHOTO: REUTERS TORONTO – A day after Canadian sensation Summer McIntosh completed one of the greatest weeks in swimming history with a hat-trick of world records, the Toronto teenager was already looking ahead to what comes next. McIntosh became the first swimmer to break three different individual long-course world records in one meet since American Michael Phelps at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, when she achieved the feat at this week's Canadian swimming trials. The 18-year-old, who headlines Canada's 28-member team named on June 12 for the World Championships in Singapore in July, believes she can go even faster. 'I can go over with my coach and see where to make improvements and really just use this as motivation and validation for my training so far,' McIntosh said. 'Just keep pushing and moving forward and work even harder.' In a stunning statement ahead of the worlds, the triple Olympic champion continued her record-breaking over a glorious five days in Victoria, shattering world marks in the 400 metres freestyle plus the 200m and 400m individual medleys. In addition to her three world records, she set five Canadian marks, came within two seconds of Katie Ledecky's 800m freestyle world record set in May and clocked the fastest 200m butterfly time since super suits were banned in 2010. Moments after completing her hat-trick with the 400m IM on June 11, she made a beeline for fellow Canadian swimming great Penny Oleksiak, who once described McIntosh as 'all gas, no brakes'. Oleksiak, Canada's most decorated Olympian with seven medals, lifted McIntosh off her feet in a huge embrace. Then, as she had done all week, McIntosh gave her gold medal away to an awestruck young fan in the stands. She did not compete on the last day of the meet on June 12, withdrawing from the 200m freestyle. Instead, she posed for photos and chatted with the large gathering of fans outside Saanich Commonwealth Place. 'What a week Victoria! Had so much fun in the pool this week,' McIntosh wrote on Instagram. The swimmer, who raced at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 as a 14-year-old, credited coach Fred Vergnoux – with whom she has been training in Antibes, France since January – for 'the best meet of my career'. '(Vergnoux) has been absolutely amazing throughout this whole journey these past few months,' McIntosh told the CBC. 'He's really taken me to the next level in the sport and pushed me farther. I've gone way faster than I ever could have imagined. 'So props to him, he's done absolutely amazing with me. And we've only known each other for so long, so I feel that connection so quickly.' McIntosh's mother Jill Horstead swam for Canada at the 1984 Olympics while her 20-year-old sister Brooke competed for Canada in pairs figure skating before switching allegiance to Spain, winning the Spanish national championships with partner Marco Zandron. They recently split. McIntosh is expected to compete in five individual events at the World Championships, which begin on July 14 with open water events before shifting to the pool on July 26. She could continue her assault on the record books, as Phelps is the only swimmer to win five gold medals in a single worlds (2007). McIntosh then plans to move to Austin, Texas to work with Bob Bowman, Phelps' coach for his entire career. REUTERS Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
RNZ News
13-06-2025
- Sport
- RNZ News
Canada's teen swimming sensation Summer McIntosh looks ahead to worlds after record week
Swimmer Summer Mcintosh has turned heads with a bevy of successful swims and records set this week (File photo, from the 2024 Paris Olympics). Photo: MANAN VATSYAYANA A day after Canadian sensation Summer McIntosh completed one of the greatest weeks in swimming history with a hat-trick of world records, the Toronto teenager was already looking ahead to what comes next. McIntosh became the first swimmer to break three different individual long-course world records in one meet since American Michael Phelps at the 2008 Beijing Olympics when she achieved the feat at this week's Canadian swimming trials. The 18-year-old, who headlines Canada's 28-member team named for next month's World Championships in Singapore, believes she can go even faster. "I can go over with my coach and see where to make improvements and really just use this as motivation and validation for my training so far," McIntosh said. "Just keep pushing and moving forward and work even harder." In a stunning statement ahead of the worlds, the triple Olympic champion continued her record-breaking over a glorious five days in Victoria, shattering world marks in the 400 metres freestyle plus the 200m and 400m individual medleys. In addition to her three world records, she set five Canadian marks, came within two seconds of Katie Ledecky's 800m freestyle world record set last month and clocked the fastest 200m butterfly time since super suits were banned in 2010. Moments after completing her hat-trick with the 400m individual medley on Wednesday, she made a beeline for fellow Canadian swimming great Penny Oleksiak, who once described McIntosh as "all gas, no brakes." Oleksiak, Canada's most decorated Olympian with seven medals, lifted McIntosh off her feet in a huge embrace. (File photo) Summer McIntosh competing in the women's 200m individual medley final at the TYR Pro Swim Series Westmont, in March, in Illinois. Photo: MICHAEL REAVES Then, as she had done all week, McIntosh gave her gold medal away to an awestruck young fan in the stands. McIntosh did not compete on the last day of the meet on Thursday, withdrawing from the 200m freestyle. Instead, she posed for photos and chatted with the large gathering of fans outside the Saanich Commonwealth Place recreation centre. "What a week Victoria! Had so much fun in the pool this week," McIntosh wrote on Instagram. The swimmer, who raced at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 as a 14-year-old, credited coach Fred Vergnoux - with whom she has been training in Antibes, France, since January - for "the best meet of my career." "(Vergnoux) has been absolutely amazing throughout this whole journey these past few months," McIntosh told the CBC. "He's really taken me to the next level in the sport and pushed me farther. I've gone way faster than I ever could have imagined. "So props to him, he's done absolutely amazing with me. And we've only known each other for so long, so I feel that connection so quickly." McIntosh's mother Jill Horstead swam for Canada at the 1984 Olympics while her 20-year-old sister Brooke competed for Canada in pairs figure skating before switching allegiance to Spain, winning the Spanish national championships with partner Marco Zandron. They recently split. Summer McIntosh is expected to compete in five individual events at the World Championships, which begin on 14 July with open water events before shifting to the pool on 26 July. She could continue her assault on the record books, as Phelps is the only swimmer to win five gold medals in a single worlds (2007). McIntosh then plans to move to Austin, Texas, to work with Bob Bowman, Phelps' coach for his entire career. - Reuters
